Francis Searchlights FB280 User manual

User Instruction & Installation Manual
FB280
Tungsten Halogen Searchlight
Product Reference Number:
B7163 –FB280 LV Chrome B7169 –FB280 LV Semi-Gloss Black
B7186 –FB280 HV Chrome B7179 –FB280 HV Semi-Gloss Black
Manufacturer’s details: Distributor details:
Manual Part Number: C22274 Issue: 3 16.8.18
Francis Searchlights Ltd
Union Road, Bolton
Lancashire, BL2 2HJ, UK
Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
http://www.francis.co.uk
E-mail: [e-mail]

CONTENTS
1 - Introduction
2 - Safety Precautions
3 - Technical Information
4 - Unpacking and Installation Instructions
5 - Electrical Installation
6 - Operating Instructions
7 - Fault Finding
8 - Maintenance and Servicing
9 - General Assembly
10 - Spare Parts List

1 - Introduction
It is imperative that this manual is read carefully and understood before
installing your equipment. For your future reference please keep this
manual in a safe place.
Thank you for specifying a product from the Francis Searchlights range. All Francis products
are designed to give complete customer satisfaction and are manufactured to the highest
engineering standards in order to ensure optimum performance and service life.
The Francis FB range combines features proven over many years service in the most
hazardous conditions in both marine and land installations.
In order to prolong the life and performance of your product, we recommend that you only
specify Francis Searchlights spare parts. This will also ensure that any warranties on your
equipment will not be invalidated. Information on spares ordering and parts is provided in this
manual.
Should you ever need to contact Francis Searchlights Ltd. regarding your equipment, please
quote the Product Serial Number at all times.
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2 - Safety Precautions
The following instructions must be adhered to, in order to ensure a safe working environment
and the safety of the user.
Note: When unpacking or manoeuvring the searchlight into its fixing position, suitable
lifting points must be used in order to prevent damage to the equipment or personal
injury.
Prevent rain, snow, condensation and water droplets from contacting the lamp as this may
cause bulb failure and possible shattering;
Quartz halogen bulbs run with a high internal pressure in excess of atmospheric. Whilst the
construction is inherently strong, there is a slight risk of the bulb shattering;
Never look directly into an illuminated searchlight as this may cause severe damage to
eyesight. If it is necessary to inspect a lamp whilst in operation, always wear suitable
protective goggles;
Should it be necessary to examine the lamp with the front bezel removed, always use a
protective shield and wear goggles to ensure a safe working environment;
Never attempt to clean a lamp whilst in use;
Searchlights get hot. Never touch the unit when lit and always allow 15 to 20 minutes for
cooling down after turning the searchlight off;
Never place anything on or cover the searchlight when in use;
Ensure the lamp has cooled sufficiently before removal;
If undue force appears necessary to remove the lamp, the equipment should be inspected
by a competent person or contact the manufacturer;
When breaking a lamp for disposal, care must be taken to ensure the glass fragments are
safely contained. This operation must be performed out of doors in free air. In all
circumstances refer to the lamp manufacturers instructions packed with the lamp;
Due to the vast range of lamps available it may appear possible that more powerful lamps
can be used in the equipment than for which it was designed. Even when the unit will
physically accept a higher wattage or voltage lamp, this substitution is not recommended
and is dangerous. This action will also void any warranties on the equipment.
Always refer to the lamp manufacturer’s technical data when dealing with lamps.
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3 - Technical Information
This product has been designed to operate in accordance with the product specification. The
FB280 searchlight has the following features:
All marine grade materials and fixings;
Parabolic glass reflector;
Stove enamel paint or chrome finish;
360° horizontal rotation;
Vertical movement +90° to -30°;
Toughened front glass;
Tungsten halogen light source 12/24v or 110/230v;
External lamp focus adjustment between;
Integral on/off switch;
Enclosure protection to IP56;
The searchlight also performs to the following optical data:
Volts Watts Range P.B.C.P. Div* Lamp Life Lamp Despatch
@ 1 Lux x 1000 (Hours) Cap Number
12v 100w 933M 871 3° 2000 GX6.35 D9848
24v 150w 960M 921 3° 300 GX6.35 D14795
24v 250w 1114M 1242 3° 2000 GX6.35 D4695
24v 250w 1360M 1800 3° 300 GX6.35 D9851
120v 300w 1150M 1323 4.7˚75 GX6.35 D16883
230v 300w 1200M 1250 4.7˚ 75 GX6.35 D16841
In order that the searchlight operates correctly it is imperative that competent personnel are
responsible for the installation, operation and servicing of this equipment. Failure to adhere to
this advice may cause premature failure or incorrect operation of the searchlight, which may
damage the equipment or cause personal injury.
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4 - Unpacking and Installation Instructions
The following instructions should be read and fully understood prior to installing the equipment
to ensure that the correct procedures are followed, and all safety precautions are observed.
Note: If the equipment has been in storage for a considerable amount of time, it is
advisable to conduct a routine maintenance check on all parts before installation.
Safety Precautions
This equipment should not be connected to an electrical supply before being installed.
Installation procedures should be adhered to in order to ensure a safe working environment
and reduce the risk of damage or personal injury.
Preparing the Mounting Position
Bolt the searchlight firmly down, on and uneven surface it may be necessary to use a suitable
sealant such as silicone, in order to ensure a weatherproofed joint.
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5 - Electrical Installation
For safety purposes, only competent personnel should perform the electrical installation. All
equipment should be installed to current Electrical Regulations and Standards.
In order to obtain the maximum light output from the searchlight, it is essential that the full
operating voltage of the lamp fitted be applied to the lampholder contacts.
Method of Electrical Connection
1) Disconnect the supply before working on the electrical system;
2) The searchlight must be connected to a fused electrical supply, using suitably sized cable;
3) If the searchlight is located a considerable distance from the supply, provision must be
made in the cable size in order to overcome the voltage drop. The following table should be
used for indication purposes only:
Searchlight
12v 100w
24v 150w
24v 250w
Cable Size (mm²)
Distance Max
Distance Max
Distance Max
1.5
2 MTRS
5 MTRS
3 MTRS
2.5
3 MTRS
8 MTRS
5 MTRS
4.0
5 MTRS
13 MTRS
8 MTRS
6.0
7 MTRS
20 MTRS
12 MTRS
10.0
15 MTRS
34 MTRS
20 MTRS
Searchlight
120v 300w
230v 300w
Cable Size (mm²)
Distance Max
Distance Max
1.5
13 MTRS
24 MTRS
2.5
21 MTRS
39 MTRS
4.0
32 MTRS
62 MTRS
6.0
50 MTRS
96 MTRS
10.0
84 MTRS
161 MTRS
4) Whenever possible cable terminations should be made below deck and with approved
terminal devices;
5) If a spare auxiliary fuse or circuit breaker is not available, one of the correct type and rating
should be fitted and connected to a positive supply. It is advisable to locate a bus bar or
main connection and avoid any direct connection to the supply:
6) For 110/220v AC products, the following colour coding system should be used for the
customer supply cable:
Brown - Live
Blue - Negative
Green/Yellow - Earth
Note: This equipment must be earthed.
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6 - Operating Instructions
This equipment is designed for use out of doors, in free air. Never place anything on, or cover,
the searchlight when in use as this may present a hazard.
The beam of the searchlight can be adjusted to give a variety of beam types. Using the external
focus wheel, the desired beam can be achieved for any particular application.
This product should not be used for any purpose other than for which it was designed.
Any modifications to the product should not be undertaken without consulting the
manufacturer.
Setting to Work
Safe service in use necessitates the strict observance of the following precautions.
Any article fabricated from quartz or glass is inherently fragile and care should
therefore be taken, at all times, when handling lamps;
Eye protection must be worn when handling lamps that have been removed from
their packaging materials. The protective jacket should not be removed from the
lamp for safety reasons, as there is a remote possibility of the lamp shattering
violently, especially if it is subjected to mechanical shock or vibration;
Always isolate the equipment from the supply before inserting a lamp;
Before inserting the lamp ensure that all contacts are clean. Contacts must be
renewed at the slightest sign of corrosion. Sanding or filing down corroded areas is
not recommended as this will only make the conducting surface between the pin
and lampholder smaller, thus causing the lamp to overheat;
Do not twist or bend the fused quartz bulb when fitting the lamp as mechanical
stresses MUST be avoided;
The lamp must be capable of unimpeded expansion when it warms up to operating
temperature. Mechanical forces must not be applied to the fused quartz bulb;
Before the protective jacket is removed, suitable protection must be worn i.e face
mask and gloves with wrist protection;
Never touch the quartz bulb with bare hands, as fingerprints will make the glass
cloudy and cause a severe loss of light. This may also cause recrystallisation and
thus weaken the bulb material. Should the bulb be inadvertently touched, remove
fingerprints with methylated spirit and a clean, soft paper towel. The bulb should
then be wiped with distilled water. NOTE: ALWAYS WEAR MASK AND GLOVES
DURING CLEANING);
In all circumstances the lamp manufacturer’s data should be referred to when dealing
with lamps.

When fitting the lamp:
-Always isolate the equipment from the supply when inserting a lamp;
-Ensure the circuit is suitably fused;
-Ensure the lamp is of the correct power rating and type;
-Check lampholder is in good condition. If the contacts show any sign of corrosion, replace
the lampholder;
-Check the lampholder is in a good dry condition. Never allow water to collect in the lamp
fitting or come into contact with the lamp.
To fit the lamp:
-Unclip the latches on the front of the searchlight, allowing the bezel and glass to hang clear
on the captive latch;
-For easier access the light shield may be removed by undoing the centre screw;
-Cut open one end of the protective sleeve surrounding the lamp;
-Using the sleeve to prevent the fingers coming into contact with the lamp, position the two
pins above the holes in the lampholder;
-Gently push the lamp into the lampholder and remove the protective sleeve;
-Replace the light shield, fixing the centre screw in position;
-Position the front bezel onto the searchlight and retain in position using the latches;
Testing
Upon correct installation and connection to an electrical supply, the equipment can be tested in
order to ensure its’ correct performance. A competent person with some knowledge of electrical
equipment must carry out this work.
Equipment required: Multimeter with leads
Ammeter
Using the equation P=VI, the approximate power output of the equipment can be calculated in
the following way:
-Using the multimeter, take a voltage reading;
-Using the ammeter, take an amp reading from the live cable to the lamp;
-Multiply these figures together to give an approximate wattage (Power output).
For example:
Using a 24v 150w Tungsten halogen lamp:
Voltage reading = 24v; Amps reading = 6 amps
Therefore, Wattage = 24 x 6 = 144 watts
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7- Fault Finding
All fault finding must be conducted by a competent person or qualified Electrical Engineer.
Failure of Lamp to light
Causes:
1) Power not supplied;
2) Fuse blown;
3) Failed lamp
Remedy:
1) Check voltage at supply. If supply is not present the fault is at the customer supply. If
power is present, see remedy 2;
2) Check fuse for visual failure. If none noticeable check fuse for continuity using a
multimeter. If fuse found to be faulty, replace with new part and test equipment again for
correct working order. If found to be working correctly see remedy 3;
3) Firstly, check supply at lampholder connecting block (within searchlight barrel). If supply is
present, disconnect unit from power supply before removing the lamp. If noticeable
damage to filament is present, the lamp will have failed. The lamp can also be checked for
continuity using a multimeter. Replace lamp ensuring all precautions and instructions
previously outlined in this manual are adhered to.
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8 - Maintenance and Servicing
In order to prolong the service life and performance of your searchlight, the following
maintenance guidelines are recommended:
Maintenance checks should be conducted before every voyage or at least every three
months;
Before checking, disconnect the equipment from the supply;
Visually inspect the condition of the equipment;
Any major or minor structural damage should be rectified immediately in order to reduce
sympathetic wear;
After inspection it may be necessary to clean the inside of the searchlight. The following
procedure should be adhered to:
Remove the front bezel;
Clean the front glass inside and out using a proprietary glass cleaner;
Clean the reflector if required;
Check the reflector mounting gaskets. If signs of corrosion or damage are
evident, replace as necessary;
Ensure that the lampholder is free from corrosion or other damage;
Check earth point for conductivity;
It is advisable to check all seals and gaskets for signs of degradation. Renew if necessary;
The searchlight is fitted with a breather, this ensures a steady airflow in order to prevent
any vacuum forming within the barrel.
Upon completing all maintenance requirements, the searchlight should be tested for full
working order (approximately 20 minutes).
If in any doubt as to the correct servicing procedures to adopt please contact your
distributor/agent or the manufacturer who will be able to advise the best course of
action for your product.
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9 - General Assembly
Drawing Number Description
B7163 FB280 LV
B7179 FB280 HV

10 - Spare Parts List
The following spare parts can be ordered directly from the manufacturer:
Part Number Description
D9848 12v 100w T/H Lamp
D14795 24v 150w T/H Lamp
D4695 24v 250w T/H Lamp
D9851 24v 250 w T/H Lamp
D16883 120v 300w T/H Lamp
D16841 230v 300w T/H Lamp
C22268-01 Breather Assembly
C13034-01 LV Lampholder conversion Kit
C16875-01 HV Lampholder conversion Kit
C09888-01 Focus wheel assembly
C15395-01 Elevation lock wheel assembly
C24348-01 Base lock wheel assembly
C16761-00 AV mount
C16878-00 Lampholder
C09880-00 Switch
C27276-00 Front glass
C27284-00 Front glass gasket
C06676-00 Reflector
C14239-00 Rear handle
C16893-00 Focus grommet
C14501-00 Focus seal
C08827-00 Focus spring
C10055-01 Mirror clip sub assembly
C02686-00 3 pin plug
C02685-00 3 pin socket
C14943-01 Red filter assembly
C14945-01 Blue filter assembly
C14947-01 Clear filter assembly
C14944-01 Amber filter assembly
C14946-01 Green filter assembly
B7001 30M LV cable reel
B7002 45M LV cable reel
B7003 90M LV cable reel
B7004 30M HV cable reel
B7005 40M HV cable reel
B7006 80M HV cable reel
B7007 Tripod
B7016 12v Interrupter unit
B7017 24v interrupter unit

In order to prolong the life and performance of your product, we recommend that you only
specify Francis Searchlights spare parts. This will ensure that any warranties on your
equipment will not be invalidated.
When ordering spare parts please contact the Sales Department at Francis Searchlights
Limited. Please quote searchlight model and serial number at all times. This will enable a fast
response to your spares’ requirements.
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